The US should not lose sight of the elevated status the kingdom enjoys with many leading economies
Saudi Arabia has always been a close partner of the US, especially with regards to regional foreign policy. The kingdom has a reputation for pragmatism, which stems from being the worlds largest oil exporter.
However, the recent re-emergence of Iran has ruffled feathers in Riyadh, reinforcing the feeling that it has been abandoned by its allies in the West.
From an objective standpoint, some of the kingdoms grievances stand up to scrutiny. A year ago, Saudi Arabia was one of several countries supporting the Syrian rebels. After evidence mounted of atrocities being carried out by President Bashar al-Assads regime, it looked like the UN Security Council was going to take action. However, this did not happen as key Western powers backed away from supporting military action after being outmaneuvered by Russia, leaving Riyadh as the rebels sole supporter.
Then in late 2013, Iran signed an interim agreement to stop enriching uranium in return for the lifting of Western sanctions. Riyadh had vehemently opposed any easing of trade embargoes, arguing that Tehran was effectively being rewarded for its sabre-rattling.
Now the kingdom has to make some hard decisions on several regional fronts. This could lead to a more isolationist stance on issues concerning Syria and Iran or a retreat to a more conciliatory diplomatic position.
Whatever line Riyadh takes, Washington should not lose sight of the elevated status the kingdom enjoys with many of the worlds largest economies. A nuclear-free Iran is good for everyone, but while Tehrans return into the international community is essential, so too is keeping Saudi Arabia within the fold.
You might also like...
Ruwais LNG full EPC award expected in June
29 March 2024
PIF entity makes $1bn Lucid placement
29 March 2024
Petro Rabigh awards KBR maintenance contract
29 March 2024
Diriyah Company seeks firms for demolition work
29 March 2024
A MEED Subscription...
Subscribe or upgrade your current MEED.com package to support your strategic planning with the MENA region’s best source of business information. Proceed to our online shop below to find out more about the features in each package.